These brown sugar pork chops are a sweet and tasty treat! The sugar caramelizes as they cook, giving the pork a beautiful glaze that’s hard to resist.
Trust me, nothing beats the smell of them sizzling in the pan! I like to serve them with some mashed potatoes to soak up all that yummy sauce. It’s a real winner for dinner! 🍴
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in chops bring great flavor and moisture. If you only have boneless chops, that’s fine too! Just adjust the cooking time since they’ll cook faster.
Brown Sugar: This gives the chops sweetness and caramelization. If you’re out, you can substitute with honey or maple syrup; just reduce the amount slightly since they are sweeter.
Spices: Salt, black pepper, paprika, and garlic powder create a well-rounded flavor. If you want a kick, add some cayenne pepper, or switch paprika for smoked paprika for a different depth.
Olive Oil: This helps with searing. Use vegetable oil or melted butter if you prefer. Just know butter can brown faster, so keep an eye on it!
Chicken Broth: Adds moisture and flavor. Vegetable broth or water with a dash of soy sauce makes a good substitute if you don’t have chicken broth.
What’s the Best Way to Get a Perfectly Caramelized Crust?
Getting a good caramelized crust is all about the heat and timing. Here are the important steps:
- Start with a hot skillet; this helps the sugar caramelize quickly.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan to avoid steaming the pork chops. Sear in batches if necessary.
- Let them be! Resist the urge to move them around while they cook. This helps form the crust.
- Check the temperature: 145°F is perfect for juicy chops. Use an instant-read thermometer for accuracy.
Let the chops rest after cooking to help keep them juicy. Enjoy your cooking!
Delicious Brown Sugar Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pork Chops:
- 4 bone-in pork chops, about 1-inch thick
- 1/3 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil
- 1/2 cup chicken broth or water
- Fresh rosemary sprigs for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 15 minutes to cook. Overall, you’ll have these sweet and savory pork chops ready to enjoy in about 25 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Spice Mix:
In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, salt, black pepper, paprika, and garlic powder. Mix them together until well combined. This is going to give your pork chops that delicious caramelized flavor!
2. Season the Pork Chops:
Using paper towels, pat the pork chops dry to remove any excess moisture. This step is key for a nice sear! Rub the spice and brown sugar mixture all over both sides of the pork chops, making sure they’re nicely coated.
3. Heat the Skillet:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil or vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Once the skillet is hot, it’s time to add those pork chops!
4. Sear the Pork Chops:
Carefully place the seasoned pork chops in the skillet. Let them sear for about 3-4 minutes on each side. You want to see that beautiful golden-brown caramelization develop on the outside!
5. Make the Pan Sauce:
Once both sides are nicely browned, reduce the heat to medium. Pour in the chicken broth or water to deglaze the pan, scraping any delicious browned bits off the bottom. Let the pork chops cook for another 3-5 minutes, or until their internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
6. Rest and Serve:
Once cooked, remove the pork chops from the skillet and let them rest for a few minutes. This will help keep them juicy! Spoon some of the savory pan sauce over the top of each chop and garnish with fresh rosemary sprigs if you’d like.
Now you’re ready to dig in! These brown sugar pork chops are delightful with mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables. Enjoy your meal!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Yes, absolutely! Boneless pork chops will work just fine. Keep in mind they may cook faster than bone-in chops, so check their internal temperature a few minutes earlier.
How to Store Leftover Pork Chops?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, warm them gently in the microwave or on a skillet, adding a splash of broth to keep them moist.
What Can I Substitute for Brown Sugar?
If you’re out of brown sugar, you can use honey or maple syrup as an alternative. Just reduce the amount slightly since they are sweeter. You can also make your own brown sugar by mixing white sugar with a little molasses!
How Do I Ensure the Pork Chops Are Juicy?
To keep your pork chops juicy, remember to let them rest for a few minutes after cooking. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring every bite is tender and flavorful.
